Find the perfect endurance event for you (and your partner)

For decades, men in committed relationships have dragged their significant others to some of the least-desirable corners of the world to witness first-hand as they splutter across the finish line of a triathlon or similar feat of endurance.

We at MH salute any man able to summon the willpower to rise from the couch and stamp out an extended exercise hiatus. However, after weeks of disruptive training, usually taking place in the hours typically reserved for said significant other to vent about how Susan in accounting “just doesn’t get it’, excitement for these excursions is often unevenly distributed.

As it turns out, gents, we’ve been doing it all wrong. The trick to doing it right – as I learned during a recent trip to Spetses, Greece, to compete in the Spetsathlon triathlon – is choosing a destination that can be framed as much as a long–overdue romantic getaway as your sportive comeback. That and tacking a couple of extra days onto the trip, obviously.

Fortunately, the last few years have seen more and more entry-level races popping up in exotic locations, creating the perfect setting for this kind of hybrid holiday. And Greece’s Spetsathlon is a perfect example.

Now in its fourth year, and already the most popular triathlon in Greece, the sprint event is manageable enough for sporadic gym-goers to sidestep months of intense training that comes with longer races, but also challenging enough to warrant a well-earned medal at the finish line. In addition, the shorter distance means you’re less likely to spend the remainder of the trip hobbling around, wrought with debilitating post-race muscle soreness.

The race itself kicks off with a beach start heading into the crystal-clear water that surrounds Spetses Island. A 750m thrash around a triangular ocean course, the swim ends exactly where it began, and a sunny, seaside transition awaits.

The 40km bike ride around the perimeter of the island serves up more climbing than typical sprint triathlons, but the resulting views are worth every challenging pedal stroke.

The final few kilometers, a speedy switchback descent through rocky mountain passes followed by an all-out sprint into town as locals scream in support, are as exhilarating as the scenery is breathtaking.

The run, again, is unlike any other you’re likely to have encountered at more established triathlon events. You’ll start along the bike route, but then cut sharply through the town square, darting left and right between bustling local establishments. Suddenly, a clear path opens up along the yacht-filled marina, leading the way to the old lighthouse that serves as the turnaround.

The transition area offers postcard views in all directions and colorful local shops and cafes to help pass the time as you swim, bike and run your way to an epic Instagram post. Then, mere feet away from the finish line, terrace seating at the restaurant of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel sets the perfect scene for a post-race lunch together.

Just don’t spend the rest of the trip droning on about the race.

Eyes on the prize (ahem, that means your partner)

Take your partner’s support from begrudging to No1 Fan with these itinerary additions. They’ll be making room for a foam finger in no time.

Outrun boredom

Break up the two-hour drive from Athens airport to Porto Heli with a stop in at Stork, an authentic Greek restaurant perched above Epidavros and offering one of the best coastline views you’ll see on the trip – possibly ever.

Find front row seats

In the heart of Spetsathlon’s sponsor village, just a few steps from the triathlon finish line and transition area, sits the majestic Poseidonion hotel and restaurant with patio seating – perfect for post-race eats and your first Greek coffee.

Finish in style

Sweeping 360 views of the sprawling Peloponnese countryside make the ultra-luxe Amanzoe resort a must-see while you’re in the area – perfect for your post-performance recuperation days. Toast to your achievement with a glass of Champagne here and you can do no wrong.

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